Late Saturday afternoon (12th) Cr Julia Leu and I attended the AGM of the Baileys Creek Community League, an organisation which has been operating for 34 years in the Cow Bay area north of the Daintree.
I had been unable to meet with the group prior to the election so was pleased to be invited to attend.
The members brought us up to date with key issues that they have been concerned about and want the Council to take a lead on. Electricity seems to be the most significant issue as it is also for the tourism operators and residents around Cape Tribulation where I headed after the Baileys Creek meeting.
We will need to talk with the State government about this matter and also the on-going saga about getting a boat ramp on Thornton Beach. There are some things north of the Daintree that can be responded to quickly and others that are going to take some time.
There seems to be a new spirit of collaboration between the residents north of the Daintree and they are keen to move on the outcomes of the former Douglas Shire's Community Engagement process which was interrupted following the announcement of the amalgamation.
It is acknowledged by all that the area is of the utmost significance and that its environmental values need to be protected and enhanced. At the same time, the 70 or so small businesses north of the Daintree need to be able to thrive and create jobs.
There are no magic wands to wave but we need to be agreeing on priorities and what can be delivered and when. I look forward to working with Julia to make some key things happen.
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